Using the scenario below, identify the effects of the use of media by a child at the preschool stage and outline recommendations for media use for this stage.
Scenario:
A parent tells you that their preschool-aged child loves using a smartphone, iPad, computer games, or watching tv. The parent is not sure if it is appropriate for their child and wants to learn more.
Explain at least 3 research-based findings about the effects of media use on a preschool-aged child (3 to 5 years of age).
Provide at least 2 recommendations for the parent regarding the appropriate use of media for a child in this stage.
Support with authoritative sources.
Physical Health: Heavy media use is a major contributor to a sedentary lifestyle, which increases the risk of childhood obesity. Additionally, screen time, especially right before bed, can disrupt a child's sleep patterns due to the blue light emitted from devices and the stimulating nature of the content (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2016).
Recommendations for Parents 👨👩👧👦
Parents can follow these recommendations to ensure their child's media use is appropriate and beneficial.
Set Clear Limits and Choose Content Wisely: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting screen time to no more than one hour per day for children ages 2 to 5. It's also vital for parents to select high-quality, educational programming that is slow-paced and free of violence. This helps ensure the content is appropriate and valuable for a young child's developing brain.
Make it an Interactive Experience: Instead of allowing the child to watch passively, a parent should co-view the media with them. This involves actively engaging in the show by talking about what's happening on screen, asking the child questions, and connecting the content to real-world experiences. This transforms screen time from a passive activity into a valuable learning and bonding experience.
Sample Answer
Excessive media use by a preschool-aged child can have a number of negative effects, but with proper guidance and content selection, it can also have educational benefits. The key is to find a balance and make media use an interactive experience rather than a passive one.
Effects of Media Use 📺
Research has identified several key effects of media use on children between the ages of 3 and 5.
Cognitive and Language Development: Too much screen time can negatively impact a child's language skills. The background noise from a TV can reduce the amount and quality of a parent's verbal interaction with their child, which is crucial for language acquisition. Conversely, high-quality, educational content can improve pre-literacy skills, but only if an adult is present to help the child understand and engage with the content (Kirkorian, Wartella, & Anderson, 2008).
Social-Emotional Skills: Media can take away opportunities for the hands-on, creative play that helps children develop social and emotional skills. Spending a lot of time on screens can limit a child's ability to learn how to manage their emotions, share, and empathize with others. Overly stimulating media can also make it harder for a child to regulate their behavior and attention.